Somalia's President Declares His Country A Warzone

New York Times: Somalia’s President Declares War on Shabab Militants

MOGADISHU, Somalia — The newly elected president of Somalia, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, declared war on the Shabab militant group on Thursday and offered amnesty to fighters, whom he referred to as “brainwashed youth,” if they surrendered within 60 days.

“The country is in a state of war,” said Mr. Mohamed, widely known by his nickname, Farmajo.

“We want to attack them and liberate the areas they are in,” Mr. Mohamed said, referring to the Shabab militants.

His announcement came just over a week after President Trump signed a directive that declared parts of Somalia an “area of active hostilities.” The order temporarily relaxes some rules for preventing civilian casualties when the American military carries out counterterrorism strikes in Somalia.

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WNU Editor: Al Shabaab has dismissed the Somali President's war declaration .... Al-Shabab dismisses Somali president war declaration (BBC). In the meantime the U.S. is not ramping up its efforts in the country .... Trump Grants US Military More Authority to Strike Militants in Somalia (VOA).

More News On Somalia's President Declaring His Country A Warzone

Somalia leader declares country a war zone, replaces chiefs -- AP
Somalia leader declares country a 'war zone' -- Al Jazeera
Somalia's president declares state of war and gives Al-Shabaab 60 days to surrender -- International Business Times
Somalia: President Declares War Against Al Shabaab, Extends Amnesty to Fighters -- Wast African
Somalia Leader Declares Country a War Zone, Replaces Chiefs -- AP
Attacks in Somalia's Capital Prompt Intelligence, Army Shake-Up -- Bloomberg
​Somalia's government troops battle Al Shabaab fighters near port town -- Garowe Online
Mortar attack kills 3 civilians in Somalia's capital -- AP
Mortar attack kills three in Somalia, police, ambulance services say -- Reuters
At least 19 people killed by land mine in Somalia -- Al Jazeera
Somalia: Seven killed in Mogadishu car bombing -- Al Jazeera